Francoeur’s playing time has been diminished with Carlos Beltran’s return from the disabled list. Angel Pagan has assumed the starting right-field duties, with Francoeur coming off the bench for the first time in his career.

If Francoeur still is with the team on Sunday, he likely would start against Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw, who yesterday appealed a five-game suspension for intentionally throwing at San Francisco’s Aaron Rowand Tuesday night. But manager Jerry Manuel likely will give Beltran a day off before then, giving Francoeur an opportunity to start.

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The Mets activated Oliver Perez from the disabled list before last night’s game and had him available to pitch in relief. Justin Turner was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo after Tuesday night’s game to clear roster space for Perez.

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Luis Castillo was given last night off to rest after only two games since rejoining the team. Manuel said Castillo’s minor league rehab assignment was short, and he wanted to ensure the second baseman gets his proper rest. Alex Cora started in Castillo’s place.

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Reliever Chad Cordero was signed to a minor league contract and will be assigned to Buffalo. Cordero, who had a 6.52 ERA in nine appearances for the Mariners, joins reliever Brian Bruney in giving the Mets veteran experience at the minor league level.

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The Mets extended their working relationship with Buffalo for two more years, keeping the Bisons as their Triple-A affiliate.